Organizations embracing artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline operations must also prepare for the unique risks it. The NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) provides a structured, trustworthy approach to identifying, evaluating, and mitigating these risks across the AI lifecycle. Implementing this framework helps internal teams establish clear governance and gives external stakeholders confidence in your organization’s responsible AI practices.

Is your organization ready to align with the NIST AI Risk Management Framework? Schedule a consultation to get started.

 

How to Comply with the NIST AI Risk Management Framework

The NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF 1.0), released in January 2023, provides organizations with a structured approach to designing, developing, deploying, and governing AI systems responsibly. Unlike a regulation, the NIST AI Risk Management Framework is voluntary guidance, created to help organizations identify, assess, and manage the unique risks associated with AI.

To begin aligning with the NIST AI RMF, organizations should focus on three essential steps:

1. Understand the scope and structure of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework, including its core functions and governance expectations. 
2. Implement the AI RMF’s functions across internal governance, oversight, and lifecycle processes to ensure responsible AI design, development, and deployment. 
3. Prepare for independent or third-party readiness assessments that evaluate how effectively your teams and processes align with NIST’s AI risk principles.
   

Partnering with an experienced NIST AI RMF advisor can streamline this process and help your organization build a governance program rooted in trustworthiness, accountability, and transparency.

 

Step 1: Understand the Scope of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework

The NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) is designed to help organizations manage AI systems effectively through risk-based governance. Building on other established NIST frameworks—such as the Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) and the Risk Management Framework (RMF), the AI RMF provides guidance across the entire AI lifecycle, from design and development to deployment and ongoing monitoring.

It addresses risks that can affect individuals’ security, privacy, data integrity, and intellectual property (IP). Unlike some NIST controls, such as SP 800-171, the AI RMF is currently voluntary. Organizations are not legally required to adopt it; instead, it offers recommended best practices to achieve trusted and responsible AI outcomes.

The framework outlines a series of ideal outcomes, allowing organizations to implement them in ways that suit their unique operational context. NIST also provides companion guides and resources to support effective alignment with these principles.

 

Step 1: Understand the Scope of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework

The NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) is designed to help organizations manage AI systems responsibly through structured risk management. It builds upon other widely recognized NIST frameworks, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) and the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF).

The AI RMF covers the full lifecycle of AI systems, from design and development to deployment and ongoing monitoring—addressing risks that can affect security, privacy, data integrity, and intellectual property (IP).

Unlike some other NIST standards, such as SP 800-171, the AI RMF is voluntary and is not mandated by local, federal, or international law. Organizations are not legally required to implement it; instead, the framework provides best practices for achieving responsible and trustworthy AI outcomes.

The NIST AI RMF emphasizes a set of ideal outcomes rather than prescriptive controls. Organizations are encouraged to adapt these outcomes to their specific context. To support implementation, NIST also publishes the NIST AI RMF Playbook, which provides optional guidance and practical examples to facilitate alignment with the framework.

 

Step 2: Implement the NIST AI Risk Management Framework Core Functions

After understanding the purpose and scope of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF), organizations can begin implementing its core functions. This often involves mapping or adjusting existing IT and cybersecurity controls or developing new systems and protocols to align with NIST guidance.

The AI RMF organizes its recommendations into four core functions: Govern, Map, Measure, and Manage. Each function includes Categories and Subcategories that define the ideal outcomes AI systems should achieve, ensuring alignment with responsible and trustworthy AI principles.

These core functions are designed to work together, not in isolation. For instance, the scoping activities in Govern and Map provide critical context for the more detailed Testing, Evaluation, Verification, and Validation (TEVV) practices included in Measure.

The following overview highlights each function to guide your organization’s AI deployment and governance efforts.

 

Govern 1 – Policies, Processes, Procedures, and Practices

Establishing clear organizational policies and procedures is critical for managing AI-related risks effectively. The Govern function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) provides guidance to ensure that AI governance aligns with legal, ethical, and organizational standards.

Key components of Govern 1 include:

• Govern 1.1 – Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Organizations understand, document, and actively manage AI-related legal and regulatory requirements.
• Govern 1.2 – Trustworthy AI Integration: Policies, processes, procedures, and practices incorporate the characteristics of trustworthy AI systems, ensuring responsible and ethical AI deployment.
• Govern 1.3 – Risk-Based Decision Making: Procedures are established to determine the appropriate level of risk-management activities based on the organization’s risk tolerance.
• Govern 1.4 – Transparent Risk Management: Risk-management processes and outcomes are documented and governed through transparent policies, procedures, and other mechanisms.

Implementing these practices ensures that your organization’s AI initiatives are governed consistently, responsibly, and in alignment with the principles outlined in the NIST AI RMF.

 

Govern 2 – Accountability and Responsibility

Defining clear roles, responsibilities, and lines of authority is essential for effective AI risk management. The Govern function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) ensures that every team member understands their duties and is empowered to act in alignment with organizational policies and AI risk principles.

Key components of Govern 2 include:

• Govern 2.1 – Documented Roles and Communication: Roles, responsibilities, and lines of communication for mapping, measuring, and managing AI risks are clearly documented and understood by individuals and teams across the organization. 
• Govern 2.2 – Training and Capability Building: Personnel and partners receive AI risk-management training, enabling them to perform their duties consistently with related policies, procedures, and agreements.
  

Implementing these practices ensures accountability and responsibility are embedded in your AI governance program, fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and compliance with the NIST AI RMF.

 

Govern 3 – Culture

Building a strong organizational culture is essential to fostering trustworthy and responsible AI. The Govern function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) emphasizes behaviors and values that support ethical, safe, and accountable AI practices across all teams.

Key components of Govern 3 include:

• Govern 3.1 – Open Communication and Safety Mindset: The organization encourages open dialogue, critical thinking, and a “safety-first” mindset when designing, deploying, and monitoring AI systems. 
• Govern 3.2 – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA): DEIA principles are integrated into AI governance and decision-making to ensure fair and inclusive outcomes. 
• Govern 3.3 – Continuous Learning: Teams engage in ongoing learning about AI risks, limitations, and impacts, promoting a culture of awareness and adaptability.
  

By embedding these cultural practices, organizations can ensure their AI initiatives are aligned with NIST AI RMF principles, reinforcing trust, accountability, and ethical decision-making throughout the AI lifecycle.

Govern 4 – Documentation and Communication

Maintaining thorough documentation and effective communication is essential for accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement in AI governance. The Govern function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) provides guidance to ensure risk-related information is properly recorded and shared across the organization.

Key components of Govern 4 include:

• Govern 4.1 – Risk Documentation: All AI risk-related information—including incidents, decisions, and mitigations is systematically recorded and maintained for accountability and traceability.
• Govern 4.2 – Internal and External Communication: Clear communication channels are established to share findings, lessons learned, and risk insights with relevant internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Govern 4.3 – Third-Party Engagement: Procedures are in place to engage external actors (partners, vendors, regulators) and responsibly manage third-party AI risks.

Implementing these practices ensures that your organization’s AI governance is transparent, accountable, and aligned with the principles outlined in the NIST AI RMF.

 

Map 1 – Context Establishment and Risk Framing

Establishing context and framing AI-related risks is critical for effective governance. The Map function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) ensures organizations have a clear understanding of each AI system’s purpose, scope, and operating environment.

Key components of Map 1 include:

• Map 1.1 – Purpose and Context: The intended purposes and operational contexts of AI systems are documented and clearly understood. 
• Map 1.2 – Capabilities and Limitations: AI systems’ capabilities, benefits, and limitations are fully documented to inform risk management and decision-making. 
• Map 1.3 – Assumptions and Dependencies: All assumptions and dependencies associated with AI systems are identified and recorded. 
• Map 1.4 – Alignment with Mission and Values: AI system use cases and goals are aligned with the organization’s mission, values, and strategic objectives. 
• Map 1.5 – Risk Tolerance Definition: Organizational risk tolerances for AI systems are clearly defined and communicated to relevant stakeholders. 
• Map 1.6 – Legal and Regulatory Awareness: Applicable legal, regulatory, and other compliance obligations are identified, documented, and understood.
  

Implementing these practices provides a strong foundation for managing AI risks responsibly and aligning AI initiatives with organizational objectives, in accordance with the NIST AI RMF.

 

Map 2 – AI System Characteristics and Functionality

Cataloging and understanding the technical and operational characteristics of AI systems is essential for effective risk evaluation. The Map function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) helps organizations identify and manage stakeholder interactions and system functionalities throughout the AI lifecycle.

Key components of Map 2 include:

• Map 2.1 – Stakeholder Identification: All internal and external stakeholders who interact with or are impacted by AI systems are identified. 
• Map 2.2 – Stakeholder Needs and Expectations: Stakeholders’ requirements, concerns, and expectations are documented to guide responsible AI design and deployment. 
• Map 2.3 – Stakeholder Engagement: Stakeholders are engaged appropriately throughout the AI system lifecycle, ensuring continuous alignment with organizational and ethical objectives.
  

Implementing these practices ensures AI system characteristics are thoroughly understood, and stakeholder perspectives are integrated into risk evaluation and governance in alignment with the NIST AI RMF.

Map 3 – Stakeholder and Impact Analysis

Understanding the stakeholders and impacts of AI systems is essential for effective risk management. The Map function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) helps organizations identify, document, and evaluate risks to individuals, communities, organizations, and society.

Key components of Map 3 include:

• Map 3.1 – Risk Identification: Risks associated with AI systems are systematically identified and documented to inform governance and mitigation strategies. 
• Map 3.2 – Risk Identification Methods: Established methods and processes are applied to consistently detect and assess AI-related risks. 
• Map 3.3 – Impact Characterization: AI system risks are characterized in terms of their potential effects on individuals, communities, organizations, and society.
  

By conducting thorough stakeholder and impact analyses, organizations can ensure that AI risks are fully understood and managed responsibly, in alignment with the principles of the NIST AI RMF.

 

Map 4 – Risk Characterization and Documentation

Characterizing and documenting AI-related risks is critical for informed decision-making and effective governance. The Map function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) ensures that risks are prioritized, recorded, and communicated to guide subsequent measurement and management activities.

Key components of Map 4 include:

• Map 4.1 – Risk Prioritization: AI risks are assessed and prioritized based on potential impact and likelihood, enabling organizations to focus on the most significant risks. 
• Map 4.2 – Risk Documentation and Communication: Prioritized risks are documented and communicated to relevant internal and external stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  

By implementing these practices, organizations can maintain a comprehensive record of AI risks and make informed decisions throughout the AI lifecycle, in alignment with NIST AI RMF principles.

 

Measure 1 – Identification and Application of Methods and Metrics

Establishing and applying the right tools, metrics, and methodologies is essential to assess AI risks and ensure system trustworthiness. The Measure function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) provides guidance for consistently evaluating AI systems and informing governance decisions.

Key components of Measure 1 include:

• Measure 1.1 – Tools, Methods, and Metrics Selection: Appropriate tools, methods, and metrics for assessing AI risks are identified, selected, and applied across AI systems. 
• Measure 1.2 – Documentation and Utilization of Results: Measurement results are systematically documented and used to inform risk management decisions and mitigation strategies. 
• Measure 1.3 – Continuous Review: Measurement processes are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure their relevance, accuracy, and effectiveness in managing AI risks.
  

Implementing these practices enables organizations to evaluate AI system risks effectively and maintain trustworthiness in alignment with the NIST AI RMF.

 

Measure 2 – Assessment of Trustworthy AI Characteristics

Evaluating AI systems for properties associated with trustworthy AI, such as validity, reliability, safety, security, privacy, and fairness, is critical for effective risk management. The Measure function of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) guides organizations in monitoring AI system performance and emerging risks to maintain trustworthiness.

Key components of Measure 2 include:

• Measure 2.1 – Continuous Monitoring: AI systems are continuously monitored to detect performance deviations and emerging risks that could impact reliability, safety, or fairness. 
• Measure 2.2 – Documentation and Risk-Informed Decision-Making: Monitoring results are systematically documented and used to inform AI risk management decisions and mitigation strategies. 
• Measure 2.3 – Process Review and Updates: Monitoring processes are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure ongoing effectiveness and alignment with organizational risk management goals.
  

By implementing these practices, organizations can ensure AI systems remain trustworthy, accountable, and aligned with the principles outlined in the NIST AI RMF.

 

Manage 3 – Risk Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

Facilitating timely and transparent communication about AI risks, incidents, and decisions is essential for effective governance. The Manage function ensures that risk management outcomes are shared, lessons are applied, and continuous improvement is embedded throughout the organization.

Key components of Manage 3 include:

• Manage 3.1 – Evaluation of Risk Management Outcomes: AI risk management outcomes are regularly assessed to identify opportunities for improvement and enhance organizational practices. 
• Manage 3.2 – Documentation of Lessons Learned: Lessons learned from AI risk events and decisions are documented and incorporated into organizational policies, processes, and practices. 
• Manage 3.3 – Continuous Improvement: Ongoing improvement of AI risk management activities is promoted across teams to strengthen governance, accountability, and risk mitigation.
  

Implementing these practices ensures transparent stakeholder engagement and fosters a culture of learning and continuous improvement, fully aligned with the NIST AI RMF principles.

 

Step 3: Prepare for Third-Party Assessment

While the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) is not legally mandated and does not currently provide an official certification, organizations can leverage third-party assessments to demonstrate alignment and build trust with stakeholders.

Engaging independent audits or reviews against the NIST AI RMF criteria allows organizations to validate their AI governance practices, risk management processes, and adherence to responsible AI principles.

It’s important to view NIST AI RMF deployment as part of a broader strategic approach. Organizations can use the framework not only to strengthen internal AI governance but also to align with emerging AI regulations and standards, such as ISO/IEC 42001. Partnering with experienced advisors can streamline compliance efforts and optimize governance across multiple frameworks.

 

Get Started with NIST AI RMF Deployment Today

As AI regulations gain momentum globally, organizations with robust governance models will be better positioned to meet emerging requirements. While the NIST AI Risk Management Framework (AI RMF) is not currently mandatory, implementing its guidance prepares your organization for evolving AI rules in the U.S. and worldwide.

RSI Security has supported numerous organizations in achieving safe, trustworthy, and compliant AI practices that satisfy both regulatory expectations and strategic partners. By establishing disciplined AI governance upfront, organizations can unlock flexibility and growth while reducing risks.

Take the next step in AI governance and compliance. Contact RSI Security today to learn how our expert advisory services can help your organization align with the NIST AI RMF and build a trustworthy, future-ready AI program.

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